Compact Fiber Optic Splitter Module Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic splitters in high-density networks require compact designs with good optical performance to optimize space usage while maintaining insertion loss, reflection loss, and uniformity, as traditional splitters occupy significant space in fiber distribution hubs.
Innovation Solution
A compact fiber optic splitter module design featuring a housing with interlocking portions, optical splitters, input and output boots, fan-outs, and a locking device, which securely encloses and aligns fiber optic cables to ensure efficient signal splitting and distribution without excessive space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional splitters are used in fiber distribution hubs, then optical signal splitting function is achieved, but space consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The optical splitter is integrated within a compact housing that contains multiple functional components in a nested arrangement. The input boot, output boot, fan-out, and locking mechanism are all contained within the housing structure, creating a nested configuration that minimizes overall volume while maintaining all necessary optical functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components (splitter, housing, boots, fan-out, locking device) into a single integrated optical component module. This merging of functions into one compact unit reduces the space required in fiber distribution hubs while preserving optical performance through careful design of the integrated structure.
2Volume of moving object
If compact splitter design is implemented, then space requirements are reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compact module is designed with segmented, modular components that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. The housing is divided into portions that can be formed independently, and components like the input boot, output boot, and locking device are separate elements that snap or lock into place, simplifying the manufacturing of individual parts while achieving compact integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device incorporates a resilient arm that can be flexed during assembly and then locks into place, providing a dynamic assembly process that is simpler than permanent bonding or threading. This elastic locking mechanism allows for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining the compact form factor.
3Volume of moving object
If high-density network configuration is used, then space efficiency is improved, but heat dissipation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with thin-walled construction that provides adequate structural support while allowing heat to conduct through the housing walls more effectively. The thin film structure reduces thermal insulation barriers, enabling better heat dissipation from internal components to the external environment, which is critical in high-density configurations where cooling space is limited.
Data Source
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AI summary
A splitter module includes an optical splitter configured for splitting an input optical signal into two or more output optical signals. The splitter module also includes a housing that encloses the optical splitter. The housing has a first end and a second end, and defines a first opening facing the first end and a second opening at the second end. The splitter module includes an input boot configured to receive one or more input fiber cables and an input fan-out mounted at the first opening and coupled to the input boot. The splitter module further includes an output fan-out mounted at the second opening, and an output boot coupled to the output fan-out.